This collection of posts features in-depth perspectives about heroes and villains and the people who love them. These articles represent the professional and personal opinions of Dr. Andrea Letamendi, a Clinical Psychologist, scientist, and convention speaker.

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“Legends of the Dark Knight” is a strikingly divergent episode in the animated series, portraying three distinct, stylized representations of Batman including: The Golden Age era, Frank Miller’s darkly toned The Dark Knight Returns, and, of course, Batman: The Animated Series. This smart, very self-aware episode can be seen as a celebration of the Batman mythology, legacy, and core aspects of character.

In our discussion, we explore the concept of “parasocial relationships,” which refers to the bond we can have with our favorite fictional “on-screen” characters that can create feelings of closeness and relatability—and even the feelings of true “distress” when the character dies or the show comes to an end.

Listen to us assess our own “parasocial” bonds with identified characters and consider where you fall with your fictional fave!

The Arkham Sessions is a podcast dedicated to the psychology of Batman, with a focus on the 90’s show, Batman: The Animated Series. Have psychology related questions about Batman? Write to us via twitter @ArkhamSessions or on Facebook.

And don’t forget to subscribe to The Arkham Sessions on iTunes to get all the latest episodes! Please review and rate us!